Medicine Section

ANTICONVULSANTS

Diazepam (Valium)

Dose-Indications:

• anti-anxiety medication
• a muscle relaxant
• an appetite stimulant
• seizure control drug
• anesthetic

Gabapentin (Neurontin)

• Originally this medication was used for treating partial seizures in humans but it was found to be useful in treating neuropathic pain (the burning and tingling sensations that come from damaged nerves.)

Levetiracetam (Keppra)

• As advances are made in seizure control in humans, medications eventually spill down into veterinary use; levetiracetam is a good example.

Phenobarbital

• In dogs and cats, phenobarbital is probably the first choice for seizure suppression. It is effective, safe if used responsibly, and is one of the least expensive medications in all of veterinary practice.

Potassium Bromide (K Brovet)

• This medication is generally reserved for dogs who cannot tolerate phenobarbital for seizures control due to unacceptable side effects or lack of effectiveness.